Idaho Statesman - Trial Begins for Boise Pastor Jailed in Iran

By Meghann M. Cuniff, IdahoStatesman.com

Supporters of a Boise pastor jailed in Iran say they're hopeful a judge could decide his case next week.

Saeed Abedini's lawyer presented his defense Monday in Iranian court, telling a judge that the dual Iranian and U.S. citizen, who converted to Christianity from Islam 12 years ago, was motivated to start a network of house churches because of his faith, not a political agenda.

It will be the 32-year-old's only chance to defend himself against criminal charges stemming from his work in his home country, which occurred several years ago, said Tiffany Barrans, international legal director at the American Center for Law and Justice. The conservative Christian organization is helping Abdeini's family at no cost. His wife and children, ages 4 and 6, are at home in Boise following his trial, which began Monday. . . .

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